£250m plan to transform Telford town centre is approved

Part of a £250 million plan to transform Telford into one of the top nightspots in the region creating bars, restaurants, a hotel and a cinema have been approved.

Hundreds of jobs are to be created in Southwater after planners gave the first phase of the scheme the go ahead last night.

It means an 11-screen Cineworld cinema, an 82-bedroom hotel, seven pubs, restaurants or bars, and a 604-space multi-storey car park split into eight levels can now be built.

During last night's meeting of Telford & Wrekin Council's plans board, Councillor Kevin Guy said: "It's an amazing step forward to transforming Telford into a vibrant hub and it's somewhere where people of all ages and all generations will be able to come and let their hair down. It's an outstanding example of forward thinking."

Councillor Shirley Reynolds also supported the scheme and said: "It sends a message that Telford is here, it's open, and it's ready for business."

Council chiefs will today unveil another phase of their scheme to the public.

Designs for a centre called The Hub will be available to view at Telford Library today and tomorrow from 10am to 4pm, and on Saturday from 10am-3pm.

Telford & Wrekin Council leader Kuldip Sahota said: "Our plans for Southwater will result in Telford town centre having a vibrant beating heart as well as a safe, secure and attractive evening economy."

See also:

• Telford Southwater night life bid before planners

• Detailed plans for Telford’s Southwater development

• First glimpse of Telford’s £250m Southwater revamp